The Jewish Targums and John's Logos TheologyAt the beginning of his gospel, John refers to Jesus Christ as the logos - the "Word." Scholars have long debated the writer's use of the term and its meaning for his understanding of Christ. Some suggest that the designation is imported from Greek thinking through the Jewish philosopher Philo. Others contend that the logos is drawn from the Old Testament where God's word is personalized. Ronning makes a case that the Jewish Targums - interpretive translations of the Old Testament into Aramaic that were read in the synagogues in Palestine where John grew up - hold the key to understanding John's concept of logos. Examining numerous tests in the Fourth Gospel in light of the Targums, Ronning shows how connecting the logos with the Targumic concept of memra clarifies a host of theological themes that run throughout the Gospel, including Jesus' "I am" sayings, the designation of Jesus as the "Son of Man," the meaning of Jesus' going to "prepare a place" for his followers, and Jesus' role as bridegroom and lawgiver. Heavily referenced to original documents and contemporary scholarship, Ronning's impressive work will be welcomed by researchers in ancient language and New Testament studies. Includes modern author, ancient sources, and subject indices. |
